KAPA exec held over investment scam revival

DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Agents of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)-Davao regional office arrested yesterday an official of Kapa Community Ministry International over the alleged resumption of the illegal operations of the group.

NBI regional director Jonathan Balite said Arvin Malaza, a provincial board member and radio broadcaster, was apprehended after receiving P10,000 from an undercover agent in Digos City, Davao del Sur, NBI regional director Jonathan Balite said.

Balite said Malaza’s three companions, whose identities were not immediately available, were also arrested.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) had earlier warned the public on the resurgence of KAPA’s investment scam.

The group reportedly resumed its activities under the name Kapa Worldwide Ministry Association.

 “The commission notes that KAPA could have not successfully registered another corporation given its history of defrauding investors and pending criminal complaints against its officers and promoters,” the SEC said in a statement.

Initial SEC investigation showed that KAPA officials enticed the public to “donate” at least P10,000 in exchange for a 30 percent monthly “blessing” or “love gift” for life.

The SEC revoked KAPA’s registration and filed charges for violation of Republic Act 8799 or the Securities Regulation Code against its officials.

The NBI filed a similar complaint aside from syndicated estafa.

SEC chairman Emilio Aquino said KAPA “amassed wealth through an investment scam in the guise of religion and at the expense of the investing public.”

The SEC is reportedly filing another set of complaints against KAPA officials.